Canadian Entry To Practice (CETP) Practice Test

At what standard base temperature are specific gravities of liquids and vapors compared?

1. 0 degrees

2. 25 degrees

3. 60 degrees

4. 100 degrees

The correct answer is: 60 degrees

The standard base temperature at which specific gravities of liquids and vapors are compared is 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is widely recognized in various scientific and engineering practices, particularly in fields such as chemistry, physics, and engineering. The use of 60 degrees as a reference point allows for consistency and comparability across different measurements, as specific gravity can vary with temperature due to changes in density. When measuring specific gravity, which is the ratio of the density of a substance to the density of a reference substance (typically water for liquids), it is crucial to have a consistent temperature for accurate comparisons. Therefore, 60 degrees Fahrenheit serves as the standard because it is a common reference point in industrial practices, particularly in the petroleum industry. Choosing temperatures other than 60 degrees, such as 0, 25, or 100 degrees, would not align with this established standard, creating variations in specific gravity readings that could lead to discrepancies in analysis and application.